The amendments now proposed again would allow Member States to impose their own local restrictions on sound and exhaust emissions for recreational craft on inland waters used for the abstraction of drinking water.

Anderberg made it clear to the EP that the amendments had already been rejected at the first reading by both the European Commission and the Council of Ministers.

He told the EP the EBA fully supports any sensible action to protect the boating environment. "But, " he said, "a better method by which to achieve this objective would be to introduce local regulations to limit boat speed in sensitive areas."

He backed his case by pointing out it is far easier to measure boat speed than sound and emissions.

Sounding a warning note on the potential effects of the proposed amendments, Anderberg said recreational boating could undergo a severe decline if the amendments were passed.

Engine manufacturers will be happy that Anderberg finished by saying the amendments would create huge problems for the engine companies.

"That, in turn, would lead to increased cost and reduced choice to the boat user, " he explained. "Navigation areas would become limited, as it is impossible for boats to change their engines when entering locally restricted waters."